Individuals typically shell out around $31 each month on digital and computer-based gaming content.
Video game enthusiasts are becoming more generous towards their pastime. As per a study conducted by Bitkom prior to the Gamescom video game expo in Cologne, avid players typically shell out around 31 euros per month on digital and computer games, excluding hardware like computers, consoles, or smartphones. This represents an increase from 26 euros in the previous year and 23 euros from the year prior, according to Bitkom's announcement on Wednesday.
This expenditure isn't exclusive to buying games in physical stores or downloading them from platforms, but also encompasses in-game purchases such as boosting equipment. Two years ago, 37% of individuals engaged in such purchases, but now, nearly half (48%) have done so within the last year.
Gaming, regardless of whether on smartphones, tablets, or classic consoles, is a common activity, according to Bitkom. Approximately half of Germans aged 16 and above (53%) indulge in video or computer games at least occasionally, with 90% of individuals aged 16 to 29 participating. The smartphone is the most popular gadget for this purpose.
"The gaming realm is no longer an exclusive domain of children and young adults," explained Florian Bayer, an expert from Bitkom. "For many, games serve purposes beyond mere amusement - they offer an engaging introduction to technology, discovery of new dimensions, and the chance to connect with friends."
The research, commissioned by the digital association, involved 1,205 individuals aged 16 and above, including 638 gamers. Bitkom considers the overall survey to be representative, it added.
However, the German Federal Drug Commissioner, Burkhard Blienert, also highlighted the potential dangers of excessive internet usage, video games, and smartphones, particularly for young people and young adults. Overuse of digital media "can lead to psychological issues such as loss of control, internal restlessness, or increased agitation," it was noted.
Despite the increasing expenses on digital and computer games, some players choose to cut back on other expenditures to maintain their gaming budget. The rise in in-game purchases like boosting equipment indicates that cutting costs within the game itself is becoming a popular strategy for many gamers.
